Interview - Brianna McGeehan

Atlanta-based singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Brianna McGeehan moves effortlessly between worlds—blending Americana, Celtic folk, and electronic textures into a sound that feels both grounded and otherworldly. Raised on classical training in piano, violin, and voice, her musical journey has evolved into a richly layered practice of storytelling through song, shaped by a wide spectrum of influences from The Cranberries and The Beatles to Regina Spektor and Lauryn Hill.

In this conversation with MeloDrift, Brianna reflects on her creative process, the emotional roots of her songwriting, and the moments that have defined her work in the studio and on stage. She also shares insights into her upcoming debut solo EP Refuge, offering a glimpse into the experiences and ideas that continue to shape her evolving artistry.

Welcome to MeloDrift. Can you tell us a little bit about your musical background?

I was raised super classical. I did classical piano, violin and voice. In college I moved away from my classical roots and started playing the guitar and writing songs. I started studying music as a little kid and have honestly never stopped so at this point I would say I have a pretty diverse background in terms styles of music and instruments. I just don’t have any other hobbies.

If your life had a theme song, what would it be?

Oh shoot my life has been really all over the place lol so one song couldn’t cut it. Except maybe the 2nd movement of Beethovens 7th symphony. That piece of music kind of contains everything within it. 

Who or what have been the most impactful influences on your musical style and sound?

The cranberries big time. Being a kid in the 90’s and deeply rooted in my Irish heritage I just thought they were like god or something. But let’s see.. The Beatles, Nirvana, Regina Spector, Cyndi Lauper, Annie Lennox, Lauryn Hill… shoot I could go on and on. 

How do your life experiences shape your songwriting, and what emotions or ideas do you hope listeners connect with in your music?

Most of my songs are inspired by my life experiences. I have honestly only written a few ever that weren’t inspired by some big emotional moment in my life. I always tell myself when I’m going through something challenging “everything is fodder, you will write a song about this”

Each phase of music-making—writing, recording, rehearsing, and performing—has its own unique rewards. Could you share a memorable moment from each stage?

I think I wrote Hey Teacher in two sittings. I often take longer to edit, sometimes even months. But Hey Teacher came out fairly whole. I had such fun recording it! I made a lot of the synth sounds with my voice and really felt like I pushed the boundaries of what I had done previously in the studio on this one. Performing this song, because I think it’s really relatable, is such fun. 

Is there a song of yours that holds particular personal significance? We’d love to know more about the story or the inspiration behind it.

Honestly this one!! I was really fixated on some negative experiences I had had with a few individuals and I just wanted to put it into song form and release it. I think that’s such a big part of being an artist, relieving our own suffering through creation and inviting others to do the same! And also telling our seemingly universal stories out loud so we can all process. 

If you could swap lives with any musician for a day, who would it be and what would you do?

Honestly I think it would be so neat to know what it would be like to be in Enya’s castle…so Enya. I would just chill. Engage in non-doing. Maybe read and journal and drink tea. 

What’s a guilty pleasure song you secretly love but might surprise your fans?

Todo - Africa (it’s not geographically accurate but I still love it.)

Looking ahead, what are some goals or dreams you have for your music and career?

I want to keep making art until I’m dead. I want the folks who would benefit from my music to find it. I want to play shows all over the world. I want to collaborate with people that inspire me. Something like that…

Finally, is there anything else you'd like to share with our readers before we close?

Yes!! My debut solo EP, Refuge is coming out July 24th! Follow me in all the places and I will be sure to remind you with neat pictures and a great many words.